Speculation Surrounds Ajax’s Next Coach: Ten Hag, Pastoor, or Wiegman?

Following the recent departure of John Heitinga from Ajax, discussions regarding his potential successor are in full swing. Erik ten Hag has emerged as the primary candidate, alongside other names such as Alex Pastoor and Frank de Boer. Interestingly, a surprising option was proposed during the SBS6 program, Nieuws van de Dag, involving Sarina Wiegman.

In the program, reporter Noa Vahle elaborated on why Ten Hag is favored for the position. “He is the most logical choice. He is familiar with the club and I believe he could extract slightly more from this squad than John Heitinga did. However, I doubt he could lead them to a championship or even a top-two or top-three finish.”

Vahle also indicated that the prospect of Mark van Bommel as a candidate is unlikely, noting, “That would be too sensitive, considering he is firmly associated with PSV.” Meanwhile, table guest Ronald Molendijk suggested Sarina Wiegman as a surprising alternative due to her impressive track record wherever she has worked. However, Vahle immediately dismissed this idea, stating, “No, I’m sorry. I want to support this initiative in 2025, but let’s be clear… women’s football and men’s football are two distinctly different realms. I’m not saying a woman can’t do it, but she wouldn’t be able to in this context.”